DES MOINES, IA  — A drone accident during a concert at the Iowa State Fair on the evening of August 16, 2024, is currently under investigation by the Iowa State Fair Police Department (ISFPD). While details are scarce, an unknown spokesperson at the ISFPD has confirmed that no injuries were reported in connection with the incident.  “At this time, we are actively investigating the incident you mentioned. Beyond sharing that no one was injured, we are unable to provide specific details until the investigation is complete.” The accident reportedly occurred when a drone crashed near spectator areas during a performance by one of the free stage entertainers. It is unclear whether any arrests have been made or what specific events led to the crash. Despite efforts to obtain further information, the ISFPD is withholding additional details until their investigation is complete. This incident raises critical questions about drone safety, particularly in crowded public spaces. The ...

By: Bridger Hawkinson Des Moines, IA - In a groundbreaking move, Representative Norlin Mommsen introduced a bill, H.F.2180, to the Iowa House of Representatives on January 29, 2024, suggesting the use of registered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the retrieval of wounded deer during hunting activities. The bill, if enacted, would amend the Iowa Code to allow licensed hunters to utilize drones for tracking and retrieving injured game, a development that has stirred both excitement and controversy within the state. The proposed legislation, authored by Representative Mommsen, a seasoned advocate for wildlife-related issues, aims to provide hunters with an additional tool for ethical and humane wounded deer recovery. The bill outlines specific conditions under which licensed hunters may deploy registered UAVs, emphasizing adherence to legal methods of dispatch authorized by the hunter's valid deer hunting license. However, the introduction of the bill has not been without its sha...

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, operate within the regulatory framework defined by 49 USC §40103, a critical component of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958. This section grants the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) the authority to regulate aircraft, airspace, and aviation facilities, ensuring the safe integration of UAS into the National Airspace System (NAS). It's important to note that 49 USC §40103's jurisdiction extends across the entire NAS, covering the United States, its territories, and airspace within the control of the United States. This comprehensive scope is crucial in maintaining uniformity and consistency in the regulation of unmanned aircraft. The definition of "aircraft" under 49 USC §40102(a)(6) is fundamental to understanding the FAA's regulatory authority. According to this definition, "aircraft" means any contrivance invented, used, or designed to navigate or fly in the air. This broad definition encomp...

Texas law struck down in federal court Author: Bridger Hawkinson A federal judge, Robert Pitman, has declared a Texas drone law, known as Chapter 423 of the Texas Government Code, unconstitutional for violating the First Amendment's protection of freedom of speech and the press. This law was challenged by the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA), the Texas Press Association (TPA), and three Texas-based photojournalists, who argued that it improperly banned the use of drones for news reporting. Although the law had exceptions for surveying, real estate work, and academic research, there was no exception for news reporting. The law aimed to limit the use of drones to collect images of private property or for surveillance. Judge Pitman concluded that Chapter 423 was a content-based restriction that was impermissible under the First Amendment and could not be enforced by any government or police entity. The judge also took issue with the law's "no-fly" pro...

Belle Plaine Mayor Addresses Drone Problems and City Strategy in July Newsletter October 11th, 2023 Author: Bridger Hawkinson In a recent July newsletter, Belle Plaine Mayor Dave Fish addressed the growing concerns regarding drone-related issues within the city. The mayor's statement shed light on the challenges Belle Plaine faces with local drone pilots and emphasized the need for cooperation from both citizens and relevant federal agencies to address the situation effectively. Mayor Dave Fish began by acknowledging the existence of drone-related problems within the city. These problems, he noted, are primarily linked to the activities of local drone pilots. However, the mayor pointed out that the complexity of the issue is closely tied to federal regulations and guidelines governing drone operations, which poses limitations on what can be addressed within city code. The mayor expressed the city's commitment to finding a solution to these issues and disclosed ongoing...

 Belle Plaine city council discusses drone ordinance. March 14th, 2023 Author: Bridger Hawkinson The city council of Belle Plain, Iowa on Wednesday, March 1st held a council meeting discussing numerous issues including a segment regarding the use of drones around the city. In a phone interview with a Belle Plain Ambulance Services spokesperson, the concern is over a local drone pilot "Interfering" with their operations of service, and the families they serve. The spokesperson also reports the drone is spying and invading public peace and enjoyment of those in town. The operator that is flying the drone remains unidentified at this time but will be updated as we know more. John DeRaad, a resident of Belle Plaine, mentioned during a March 1 city council meeting , that he is aware of the concerns, but wants to make sure the city does not get too restrictive on drone laws that affect responsible drone operators. Iowans for Drone Freedom has reached out to city officials wh...

Visual Observer Training Guide for Drones Introduction: Visual Observers (VOs) play a crucial role in ensuring the safe operation of drones. VOs are responsible for observing the drone's flight and ensuring that it does not pose any safety hazards to people, property, or other aircraft. In this guide, we'll go over the essential skills and knowledge that VOs need to have to perform their duties effectively. 1. Drone Safety Regulations: VOs must be familiar with the current drone safety regulations in their area, including the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Part 107 regulations. They should also be aware of any local regulations that may apply. 2. Understanding Drone Flight: VOs should have a basic understanding of how drones work, including the principles of flight, navigation, and control. They should also be familiar with the different types of drones and their capabilities. 3. Communication Skills: VOs must be able to communicate effectively with the drone pilot...